Abandonment of assistive products: assessing abandonment levels and factors that impact on it

Abstract

The simultaneous use of mutiple assistive products, users perception on the importance of using them, and completing the rehabilitation treatment were found to impact on the short and long-term use of products. The study offers inputs to decision making and planning for assistive technology provision in developing countries with regard to expected demand and service delivery. Implications for Rehabilitation Data about the abandonment of assistive products in Sao Paulo, Brazil, could assist informing decision making on provision and servicing of these products in similar settings. The strong correlation found between abandonment levels and the simultaneous use of multiple devices should be taken into account by health professionals when prescribing assistive products and providing guidance to users. The need for follow up on the use of assistive products after discharge from rehabilitation treatment becomes strikingly clear, as data show that completing treatment is significantly relevant when evaluating abandonment levels. As assistive products users' perception about the importance of using these devices is shown to be significant in explaining abandonment, it is mandatory that health and rehabilitation professionals take it into account when providing guidance and training users.

Exploring the use of smartphones and tablets among people with visual impairments: Are mainstream devices replacing the use of traditional visual aids?

“…traditional assistive devices are alarmingly high, with some reports indicating that the percentage of abandonment ranges from 30% to 50% for devices in aggregate, and up to 75% for particular devices (Furer, 2001). Though reasons for the abandonment of traditional assistive devices are diverse, explanations include cost, lack of technical support, and the stigma attached to their use (Phillips & Proulx, 2018;Sugawara, Ramos, Alfieri, & Battistella, 2018). The expense of traditional assistive devices (such as screen reading and magnification software) limits the ability for many potential users to consider device acquisition (Gordon, Kerzner, Sheldon, & Hansen, 2007).…”

“It's All Sort of Cool and Interesting…but What Do I Do With It?” A Qualitative Study of Stroke Survivors' Perceptions of Surface Electromyography

“…From a perspective of stroke survivor as consumer, this issue is likely one of the most important considerations for future sEMG system design and function. Interestingly, a lack of meaningful outcomes is a frequently cited reason for rehabilitation technology abandonment, however, user-centered, participatory design and implementation strategies are still not widely used in the development of such technologies, especially with older adults (48)(49)(50)(51). It is important to consider, however, that sEMG systems may be less like traditional rehabilitation technologies but more closely resemble other wearable biomedical sensors that are engrained in routine clinical care, such as those that monitor heart rhythm (EKG) or brain activity (EEG).…”

Is there a standard procedure for assessing and providing assistive devices for people with neuro-disabling conditions in United Kingdom? A nation-wide survey

“…35 Thus, ensuring that the assistive device fits the lifestyle and needs of the patient should be compulsory and follow-up should be addressed when developing future guidelines which could decrease abandonment. 14…”

“…Early abandonment is a well- 12,13 and one third of assistive technologies provided are subsequently abandoned. 14,15 It is crucial to assess and provide assistive technology in a timely manner and ensure that users are central to the decision-making process. 16 In the current scientific literature, there are two main models for the selection of and advisory process for assistive technology.…”